Tenant Rights in Finland: Utility Charges Review

Tenants often face uncertainties with utility charge statements, rent increases or repair responsibilities. This article explains concretely how to review a utility statement, what tenant rights are in Finland and what to do if the statement seems unfair. I cover documentation, gathering evidence, the landlord's notification practices and possible complaint routes such as negotiation, the Consumer Disputes Board or the courts. The content aims to help tenants make clear, lawful choices, assert their rights and obtain corrections or refunds when necessary. Practical steps and links to official sources help you move forward.

What to check in the utility statement

Carefully check the statement breakdown: meter readings, billing periods and unit prices. Compare meter readings with your own and ensure costs are allocated according to the agreement.

• Check the breakdown: meter readings, consumption periods and invoice date.
• Compare the statement with your meter readings and keep photos as evidence.
• See if the share is allocated according to the contract or per occupant and whether the amount charged is reasonable.
• Check whether the landlord has notified changes in writing and respected notice periods.

Your rights and actions

As a tenant, you have the right to request clarification and correction of an incorrect utility statement. Legislation defines principles for tenancy relationships and the obligations of the parties, which can support requests for corrections ^[1].

Document and request clarification

Request the landlord to provide a written breakdown, take photographs of meters and save emails and messages. A written request makes later complaint processes easier and serves as evidence.

Negotiation and authorities

First try to negotiate with the landlord and agree on a correction. If negotiation fails, you can bring the matter to the Consumer Disputes Board or seek legal resolution in district court ^[2][3].

• Contact the landlord first and request a written explanation.
• If no explanation is provided, make a written request for correction and set a reasonable deadline for a reply.
• Consider a complaint to the Consumer Disputes Board before court if it is a consumer matter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a landlord charge additional fees without notice?

The landlord must follow the lease agreement and notify changes appropriately; unjustified extra charges can be challenged in court.

What should I do if meter readings do not match mine?

Take photos, send a written request for clarification and ask the landlord to correct the error if necessary.

When should I take the matter to the Consumer Disputes Board or court?

If negotiation fails and the dispute concerns a clearly contested charge or compensation, the board or the courts may be the next steps.

How-To

1. Check your meter reading and take a dated photo.
2. Ask the landlord for a written breakdown and compare readings.
3. Record all contacts and responses by email or letter.
4. If disagreement continues, make a written request for correction and set a deadline for reply.
5. Consider filing a complaint with the Consumer Disputes Board or seek legal advice if needed.

Help and Support / Resources

• Finlex: Act on Residential Leases (481/1995)
• KKV: Consumer Disputes Board information
• Oikeus.fi: Court services and forms

1. [1] Finlex: Act on Residential Leases (481/1995)
2. [2] KKV: Consumer Disputes Board
3. [3] Oikeus.fi: Court services and forms